At Aluma, many patients are concerned about fullness under the chin, commonly known as a double chin. Kybella, a popular injectable, offers a permanent solution by destroying fat cells in this area. But how does it compare to generic versions of deoxycholic acid? Read on to discover the key differences, including benefits, drawbacks, pricing, and the qualifications for compounding pharmacies.
Kybella (Brand Name), Made By Allergan
Pros:
- FDA Approved: Kybella is FDA-approved for submental fat treatment, which reduces the double chin. This FDA approval ensures the medication has been thoroughly tested for safety, efficacy, and quality.
- Shelf Stable: Kybella arrives pre-formulated in a pack of 4 vials that do not require refrigeration and can be stored for 12+ months.
- Clinical Backing: Kybella has undergone rigorous clinical trials for the FDA approval process, so patients and practitioners can trust its established results.
- Widely Available: Kybella is a brand-name product manufactured by Allergan Pharmaceuticals and is widely available across U.S. and global aesthetic practices. Specific prescriptions per patient are not required to order Kybella.
Cons:
- Higher Price: As with many brand-name drugs, Kybella tends to be more expensive than generic versions. The price for Kybella in Portland, Oregon, ranges from $750 to $3000 per session, depending on the number of vials used during the treatment session.
Deoxycholic Acid (Generic Kybella), Compounded
Pros:
- Lower Price Point: Generic deoxycholic acid, available from compounding pharmacies, is much more affordable than Kybella. This substantial cost savings makes treatment more accessible for patients limited by price point. In fact, the cost of three vials of compounded deoxycholic acid is typically equivalent to the price of one vial of the brand-name version.
- Comparable Results: Practitioners across the country report that the results from generic deoxycholic acid are similar to those of Kybella. The generic’s affordability allows for larger doses per treatment session, potentially leading to more optimal outcomes.
Cons:
- Not FDA Approved: Unlike Kybella, generic deoxycholic acid is not FDA-approved. It has not undergone the same rigorous clinical trials to ensure its safety and effectiveness for submental fat reduction.
- Limited Clinical Evidence: While deoxycholic acid is chemically identical to Kybella, compounded versions do not have the same clinical trial backing.
Kybella Before and After
Aluma Aesthetic Medicine – Kybella in Portland, OR
*This patient was treated with the generic Kybella, deoxycholic acid from a compounding pharmacy. She had three treatments spaced seven weeks apart.
*This patient was treated with both the brand-name Kybella and the generic version of Kybella, deoxycholic acid. She had three treatments spaced seven weeks apart.
How much is Kybella
- Kybella: As a branded product with FDA approval, Kybella is more expensive than its generic counterpart. In the Pacific Northwest, patients typically pay $1,500 – $1800 per Kybella treatment session.
- Generic Deoxycholic Acid: Compounded deoxycholic acid is generally less expensive than Kebella. The price for generic Kybella in Portland, Oregon, is $750-$850 per treatment.
Is Generic Kybella Safe?
When considering compounded deoxycholic acid, it’s crucial to ensure the pharmacy is certified and follows strict regulations.
- PCAB Accreditation: Look for compounding pharmacies that are PCAB (Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board) accredited, which means they meet specific quality standards for compounding medications.
- State Licensing: Pharmacies must be licensed in the state where they operate. Your provider should verify this before purchasing the compounded formulation.
- FDA Guidance: While the FDA does not directly regulate compounded drugs like FDA-approved pharmaceuticals, it offers guidance to ensure pharmacies adhere to safety standards. Ensure the pharmacy follows the FDA’s 503A or 503B compounding guidelines.
Looking for Kybella or Generic Kybella in Portland, OR
When choosing between Kybella and generic deoxycholic acid, weigh each option’s pros and cons per your preferences and needs. Aluma Aesthetic Medicine prioritizes patient safety and only uses products with proven efficacy, so we continue to offer both Kybella and its generic as a trusted solution for reducing submental fat. If you want to learn more about Kybella treatments in Portland, contact us today to schedule a consultation!
